Prof. Dolan says that the Task Force will lead to real positive changes for Irish child policy. Most importantly people who work directly in child protection, family support and child welfare will all now work together under a separate agency with a view to making sure that services are more holistic, accountable and there is more a sense of confidence in the childcare system.

The Task Force is chaired by management consultant and former chairwoman of the Children First National Guidelines, Maureen Lynott. The other members include: Jim Breslin, Secretary General, Department of Children and Youth Affairs; Norah Gibbons, Director of advocacy with Barnardos; Gordon Jeyes, HSE National Director of Child and Family Services; Sylda Langford, former Director General of the Office of the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs; Dr Kevin McCoy, former Chief Inspector, Northern Ireland Social Services Inspectorate; Pat McLoughlin, Chief Executive, Irish Payment Services Organisation Limited; Ellen O’Malley-Dunlop, Chief Executive, Dublin Rape Crisis Centre; and Liam Woods, National Director, Finance, HSE.